New Orleans hip-hop veteran Damon “Wacko” Grison, widely known as Wacko, has reportedly died at the age of 46. Reports of his passing began circulating within the hip-hop community on August 27, 2026, prompting an outpouring of condolences from fans and people connected to the New Orleans rap scene.
According to reports circulating online, Wacko was born on September 8, 1979, and died on August 27, 2026. However, details surrounding his reported death remain limited. A cause of death has not been publicly confirmed by his family, and additional information about the circumstances of his passing has not been made available through a verified official announcement.
Wacko was best known for his association with UTP, the New Orleans hip-hop group connected with rapper Juvenile and Clifford “Skip” Nicholas. His work with the group placed him within an important period of Southern hip-hop during the early 2000s.
UTP released its debut studio album, The Beginning of the End…, in 2004. The project featured Juvenile, Wacko and Skip and helped establish the group beyond its earlier compilation releases. The album reached No. 122 on the Billboard 200 and No. 17 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
One of the group’s best-known songs was “Nolia Clap,” which was released in 2004. Wacko, whose birth name is Damon Grison, was among the song’s credited writers alongside Juvenile, Skip and producer Donald “XL” Robertson. The track became a notable Southern rap hit, reaching No. 31 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 9 on both the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Hot Rap Songs charts.
Wacko’s contribution to UTP connected him to the distinctive New Orleans sound that shaped Southern hip-hop during that era. His name remains associated with the group’s music and with a period when New Orleans artists were making a major impact on the national rap landscape.
Following reports of his death, tributes began appearing across social media as fans and members of the broader hip-hop community remembered the rapper. Several posts identified him as Damon “Wacko” Grison and shared the reported dates of September 8, 1979, to August 27, 2026.
At this time, information regarding funeral arrangements, memorial services and the official cause of death has not been confirmed in the available reports.
As the New Orleans hip-hop community mourns, Wacko is being remembered for his role in UTP and his contribution to the city’s influential Southern rap tradition. Further details may emerge if his family or representatives release an official statement.
Rest in peace, Damon “Wacko” Grison. His music and contribution to New Orleans hip-hop will remain part of the city’s rich musical history.
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